Silent Letters and Words Ending in -tion: Spelling Word List
Understanding words with the -tion ending pattern is a crucial step in developing advanced spelling and reading skills. This suffix creates the /ʃən/ sound (like "shun") and appears in many commonly used English words. This comprehensive list includes words that follow this important spelling pattern, which students typically encounter in upper elementary and middle school years.
Common -tion Words Spelling List
- action
- fraction
- section
- fiction
- option
- mention
- caution
- ration
- portion
- condition
- tradition
- edition
- audition
- addition
- ambition
- position
- eruption
- description
- invention
- convention
- intention
- attention
- direction
- election
- infection
- affection
- production
- lotion
- notion
- motion
- emotion
- promotion
- devotion
- nation
- station
- donation
- relation
- foundation
- vacation
- location
- education
- solution
- information
Alignment with Common Core Standards
These -tion words align particularly well with several Common Core Standards. The pattern-based nature of these words makes them especially relevant to:
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.2.F: Use spelling patterns and generalizations (e.g., word families, position-based spellings, syllable patterns, ending rules, meaningful word parts) in writing words.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.4.2.D: Spell grade-appropriate words correctly, consulting references as needed.
These standards are particularly applicable because the -tion suffix represents a consistent spelling pattern that students can learn and apply across multiple words. Understanding this pattern helps students recognize and correctly spell new words they encounter that follow the same rule.
Teaching Tips for -tion Words
When teaching these words, it's helpful to break them down into their base words and the -tion suffix. For example, "action" comes from "act" + "tion," and "direction" from "direct" + "tion." This approach helps students understand word formation and makes spelling these longer words more manageable.
Many of these words are commonly used in academic and everyday contexts, making them particularly valuable for students to master. The -tion ending typically creates nouns, often describing a state, action, or process related to the base word.
Practice Activities
Regular practice with these words helps students internalize the spelling pattern and understand how the -tion suffix changes the meaning and function of words. Some effective practice methods include:
- Word sorting activities
- Base word identification exercises
- Suffix addition practice
- Context-based sentence writing
- Pattern recognition games
Create a worksheet using words from this list
Why These Words Matter
Mastering these -tion words is essential for academic success as they frequently appear in reading materials across various subjects. These words often represent important concepts in mathematics (fraction, addition), science (motion, solution), and social studies (nation, election). Their correct spelling and usage demonstrate a sophisticated command of written English.
Remember that consistent practice and exposure to these words in meaningful contexts will help students develop confidence in both spelling and using them in their writing.